November 23, 2011 Edition

Snapps are Man, Woman of Year

Danny West (left) presents the 2011 Man and Woman of the Year Award to Charles (right) and Jackie Snapp.

Although the Man and Woman of the Year recipients are a guarded secret until announced, it was no surprise when this year's recipients were announced as Charles and Jackie Snapp. The announcement was made at Thursday night's annual banquet of the Lawrence County Area Chamber of Commerce.

The Snapps are members of the Chamber's Tourism Committee and were a driving force behind the creation of The Beatles Abbey Road sculpture and Beatles Park. The Snapps have a history in tourism and owned and operated a duck hunting guide service and lodge during the past 10 years. For several decades prior to that, the Snapp family owned and operated the Best Western Alamo Courts and Davy Crockett Restaurant.

Danny West made the presentation to the Snapps for Dr. Brett Cooper, who was out of town due to the death of his father. West designed The Beatles sculpture.

In making the presentation, West said, "Walnut Ridge, Arkansas, was on the cover of The Wall Street Journal ... these two people made it happen. They have such an ability at promotion," he added.

When there was uncertainty about finding a location for The Beatles sculpture, the Snapps stepped up and purchased seven adjoining storefronts in downtown Walnut Ridge, West noted. They then donated two storefronts for the creation of Beatles Park. "That's personal commitment, putting your money where your mouth is."

The Snapps also initiated the "Invest in Your Dreams" program to encourage local business development.

"These two have made a huge impact in our community," West said. "We are so fortunate to have them. These two are committed to making things happen and changing the landscape."